Dog Baths
Keeping your dog clean and properly groomed is very important and should be something you do on a regular basis. The number of dog baths you give your dog is dependent upon the breed of your dog and the types of activities your dog partakes in.
Some people make the mistake of giving too many dogs baths to their four-legged friends. This is never a good idea because a dog’s skin can be quickly stripped of its natural oils. This most often results in itchy, dry skin which causes the dog to scratch excessively. If you find it necessary to give dog baths more than once per week because your dog get dirty regularly, be sure to use a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo and an after-bath dog conditioner that is made specifically for dry skin.
Dog baths should be started early. Puppies as young as ten weeks old can start being bathed. It is important to prepare the bathing area before taking the puppy there. Put cotton balls in each of your dog’s ears to protect them from water. Speak in a calm, soothing voice and gently place your puppy in the tub or sink. Be certain that you use a rubberized tub mat so that your puppy does not slip. Use a hand-held shower spray and lukewarm water.
Some grooming experts suggest shampooing the body, then the rear and belly of the dog, its feet and then the head. However, if your dog has fleas, you should start at the head and work your way to the dog’s rear. This is because fleas will travel away from the shampoo and water and head for the dry areas of the dog. If you were to shampoo the head last, the fleas could get into your dog’s inner ears and eyes which is something you want to avoid at all costs.
It is important when giving dog baths to thoroughly rinse the shampoo out after washing your dog so that his skin does not become irritated. After rinsing, wrap the dog in a towel and then take the time necessary to towel dry him with another dry towel. You can blow dry your dog if you wish but remember that your dog may be frightened by the sound, so run the blow dryer on low. After the dog baths, brush or comb your dog’s hair so that all tangles are removed.
Dog baths can be terrifying for some canines. If your dog is very fearful of being bathed and is resistant during bathing times, ask a friend or family member who is familiar with your dog to assist you. Your friend can hold your dog in place in the tub while you bathe him. You may even need help in lifting your dog in and out of the tub so that he does not injure himself.
If your dog is excessively scared of bathing, you may need to find a reputable groomer who can give the dog baths for you. Experienced groomers have the expertise necessary to calm dogs down. They also often use special tubs, bathing tethers and other equipment that makes bath time easier and more pleasant.